Labor & Delivery: Infection After Cesarean Section Health Article

Several serious complications may develop as a result of a wound infection following a cesarean delivery, including infections of the bloodstream (bacteremia), septic shock, necrotizing fasciitis (an uncommon, progressive infection that destroys fat tissue and the supportive fibrous membranes), dehiscence (separation) of the fascia (fibrous strength layer that covers the abdominal muscles), or actual evisceration (complete separation of the fascia accompanied by protrusion of bowel through the incision). These complications are caused when bacteria invades normally sterile parts of the body. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment is essential to prevent these complications.

Infections that occur as a result of cesarean delivery necessitate at least one major surgical procedure, greatly increase your hospital costs, and significantly prolong your recovery. In rare instances, maternal deaths have resulted from such complications.

For information about complications from a post-cesarean wound infection, go to Infections in Pregnancy: Septic Shock and Necrotizing Fasciitis.

If you do not experience complications from cesarean delivery, your doctor still monitors you to make sure that your wound heals properly. Go to Infections in Pregnancy: Follow-Up with Doctor.